7 Free Things to do in August 2019 in the Netherlands

In desperate need for some free things to do this month? We’ve got you covered! Here are 7 free things to do in August in the Netherlands.

#1 Amsterdam Gay Pride

When: Saturday July 27 – Sunday Aug 4, 2019

Where: Amsterdam

One of the best free events in August is the ongoing gay pride festival in Amsterdam. Amsterdam Gay Pride is one of the most colourful and fun outdoor parties of the year! The most popular event, is of course Canal Pride, where more than 80 decorated boats sail on the Prinsengracht canal. Other than that, there are multiple festivities and celebrations going on in the streets. Amsterdam becomes one big party for all! So if you’re in the mood for a whole lot of fun, join Amsterdam Gay Pride and celebrate equality in the Netherlands.

Pride Parade
Pride Parade

#2 Floating Flower Parade

When: 2nd August – 4th of August 2018

Where: South Holland

The Floating Flower Parade, also known as the Varend Corso, is one of Holland’s most loved summer events. During the parade, more than 50 boats are decorated with hundreds of flowers, plants, fruits, and vegetables. The boats are then boarded by music bands and performing artists, putting on a great show for everyone in sight. During the parade, the boats pass through the canals of different cities within the Netherlands. If you want to know more about the Floating Flower Parade and the program, you can read more about the event here.

#3 Uitmarkt

When: 23 – 25 August 2019

Where: Museumplein and Leidseplein in Amsterdam

This is one of the Netherlands most popular cultural events and attracts more than 400,000 visitors. Over this weekend, over 300 shows are performed ranging from Jazz to Hip Hop to kid-friendly shows – there is something for everyone to enjoy!

#4 Vondelpark Open-air Theater

When: 2 May – 31 August 2019

Where: Vondelpark, Amsterdam

The Open-air theater in Vondelpark offers a diverse program throughout the warmer seasons. You can experience theatrical performances, music festivals, children’s shows, and cabaret performances. And all of this under the open sky, for free! All you have to do is head over to Vondelpark in Amsterdam, find a good spot to chill, and enjoy the show all summer long.

#5 Grachten Festival

When: 9 August – 18 August

Where: Amsterdam

The Grachten Festival takes place in 94 locations around Amsterdam. This unique festival allows anyone who stumbles upon it to enjoy both classical and modern music. Revel in performances by both Dutch and international performers who tell a story through the use of music. And because the festival takes place in so many unique locations, you can choose to visit the one that best suits your taste. But if you’re just casually walking through Amsterdam and happen to stumble upon this music festival, just be grateful for this moment of serendipity and enjoy some quality music.

#6 Haarlem Culinair

When: 1 August – 4 August 2019 

Where: Haarlem

Enjoy food? Who doesn’t?! Restaurants in Haarlem band together and showcase their favourite dishes at affordable prices. This culinary festival that attracts over 70,000 visitors and is a great way to taste a myriad of different cuisines from different restaurants.

Image by Christina Kooiker

#7 Sneekweek

When:  – 

Where: Friesland

Sneekweek is the biggest sailing regatta on European inland waterways. It is an amazing display of competition but there are also other festivities such as a market that provide entertainment for all!

Source: Susanna_Sieg on Pixabay

So there you have it – 7 free things to do in August in the Netherlands! Which event are you most excited about? Let us know in the comments below!

Veronika Licheva
Veronika Licheva
Living the short girl life in the land of giants. Veronika is a content creator who takes great interest in video, photography, and journalism. Her mission in The Netherlands is to build a vibrant and exciting career, while simultaneously petting as many dogs as possible.

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